ALYSE COMMITS TO ACADIA AXEWOMEN

CAPERS Academy midfielder Alyse Tierney has landed a deserved pathway to furthering her soccer career in Atlantic University Sport by committing to the Acadia Axewomen.

For the past decade Alyse has been the dictionary definition of what a CAPERS player should be on and off the field.

An exemplary player, whose class on the ball and wand of a left foot has helped shape the U17AAA Girls into a formidable NSSL force, she has also given back to her community as a coach and this Fall was appointed Minis and Skill Centre Coordinator at her hometown club.

Now Acadia Head Coach Danielle Cyr has won the race for Alyse's signature and she said: “Alyse is an excellent student-athlete, her commitment in the classroom matches her dedication on the field and that level of discipline translates directly into her play and her preparation.

"On the field, Alyse brings a calm composure on the ball and impressive versatility, allowing her to impact the game in multiple roles. She is also an outstanding teammate — positive, supportive, and someone who raises the environment around her. Her character, attitude, and academic excellence make her a perfect fit for our Axewomen culture, and we’re excited to welcome her to Acadia.”

In an interview on acadiaathletics.ca Alyse said her decision to commit to the Axewomen was influenced by the university’s atmosphere, academic programs, and her positive experience working with Cyr in the Nova Scotia provincial system.

“I was so impressed by how welcoming the team was and how strong their culture felt,” she said. “I loved the community feel of Acadia, and the kinesiology program really stood out to me. After meeting the faculty and training with the players, it felt like the right fit.”

Set to enrol in kinesiology, Tierney hopes to continue her soccer career as long as possible before pursuing medical school. She said Acadia’s academic environment and support systems will help her take the next steps toward her long-term goals.

Regional Director of Soccer Development Iain King has worked with Alyse as player and coach since he arrived into his role on the island in May 2022 and sees her as a shining example to every young female player in the Academy.

Iain said: "I have had the privilege of watching Alyse grow up in the Academy both as a player and a person and she will be a huge asset for Danielle and Acadia.

"When we won the accolade of being accepted as one of the first 20 clubs in Canada to be included in the TELUS SheCANCoach initiative to boost female coaches I had no hesitation in asking Alyse to be part of that cohort.

"As well as being such an accomplished player she is a natural coach because she doesn't ask this program what she can get, she asks what she can GIVE to make others better.

"This year she has become a work colleague and has shown great maturity and calm leadership in the Minis and Skill Centre programs.

"We will miss Alyse greatly when she leaves us this coming summer but we are deeply proud of her journey here and can't wait to see the next chapter."

Alyse, a 5’4 midfielder, has been a key member of the CAPERS Academy, most recently competing with the club’s U17AAA team. Her 2024 season included several major honours: MVP Runner-Up, Player’s Player of the Year, and selection to the CAPERS Academy Team of the Year.